(DFW) BBQ - It's alive! It's alive!!

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(DFW) BBQ - It's alive! It's alive!!

Thanks to a recent post by Scott, who attached a web site devoted exclusively to reviews of BBQ joints in Texas, I've been doing a bit of guided bbq recon in DFW and the news is good. I have often lamented the lack of good Q in Dallas, just as many of you have. BUT after a few recent trips to strange neighborhoods, I can now unequivocably recommend one 'Q spot. The ribs at Baby Back Shak and Sugar Baby's were highly and equally recommended by the review site, so I set out to try them both. While Sugar Baby's (183 at Regal Row)was a definite step up from the usual Dallas ribs, it wasn't special enough for a return trip. But what was truly exceptional were the ribs at Baby Back Shak (S. Akard near downtown across I-30). The ribs were perfect. By my standards, in order, good ribs must be rendered, tender, smoky, crusty and tasty. BBS's ribs were all that. A rib plate features 7-8 ribs that are lean, tender and yummy. They use a distinctive rub which survives the smoking and grilling process and greatly enhances the flavor. An excellent bbq sauce is available on the side. The sauce was reminiscent of Head Country, for those of you that know that brand, but slightly thinner and slightly more vinegary. It's a sweet, peppery delight. They also remove the membrane from each rack which enhances the smokiness and as well as the eating and visual aesthetics. The owners are from Memphis which may explain why the ribs are so different and so much better

Overall, I was so excited about Baby Back Shak that I went back 3 days in a row. Give them a try and see if they meet your standards.The side dishes at BBS were also recommended by the Q site and I also found them to be way above average. There are only 4 - mustardy slaw, mustard potato salad, green beans and Shak beans, which are bbq beans. They also serve homemade cake for dessert.

There is a small parking lot facing the entrance, as well as parking on the side street. Inside the place is Texas 'Q all the way. Small, simple tables, neat and clean.